History and Design
Designed by Hubert Weber in the mid-1970s, the Ra-Antares draws its lineage from the competitive IOR 1/4 ton class, a design philosophy that prioritized performance within specific rating rules. Plasto GmbH & Co., the manufacturer, maintained a quiet yet sustained presence in the sailboat market, with its name suggesting a dedication to plastic (fiberglass) construction, emphasizing durability and potential cost-effectiveness builder article.
During its production run, which commenced in 1975, the Ra-Antares was offered with variations. Notably, a "deep draft (sport model)" was available, featuring a draft of 4.69 feet (1.43 meters), indicating a more performance-oriented configuration. Information also suggests the existence of both a "regatta version" and a "family version," with the latter featuring a shallower draft, catering to different sailing preferences and uses.
Sailing Performance and Handling
The Ra-Antares, with a length overall of 25.29 feet and a waterline length of 20.01 feet, is characterized as a light and very high-performing sailboat, often categorized as a "light racer". Designed as a masthead sloop with a fin keel and spade rudder, it is particularly well-suited for racing. Anecdotal descriptions highlight the boat's excellent stability and stiffness. It is noted for performing well in lighter wind conditions. Despite its stability, it is also observed to have a low righting capability if capsized, a characteristic sometimes associated with lighter, performance-focused designs.
Accommodations and Layout
Specific detailed information regarding the interior accommodations and layout of the Plasto Ra-Antares is not widely publicized in available records. While the boat's design clearly prioritizes sailing performance, typical arrangements for a vessel of its size would likely include a basic V-berth forward, a compact salon area, and possibly a small galley and head, designed to maximize usable space within its 8.17-foot beam. Given Plasto GmbH & Co.'s likely emphasis on fiberglass construction, the interior finish would probably reflect the utilitarian yet durable materials common in boats of its era.